COLLEGE STATION, Texas. — Crowd noise and freshman quarterback Kellen Mond created some late magic for Texas A&M at Kyle Field, but Alabama’s defensive front was instrumental in the team’s 27-19 win.
In the absence of senor Da’Shawn Hand (strained MCL), defensive ends Isaiah Buggs and Raekwon Davis put on a clinic.
Buggs, who’s previous career-high in tackles was four against Colorado State, set a new mark of 10 tackles – six solo – which was a team-best for the Tide.
Hailing from Ruston, La., Buggs was able to collapse the pocket and affect Mond.
Alabama DL @BigPooh_91 Collapsing The pocket on 4th&2 #BamavsTexasAM # pic.twitter.com/oDlDWHTIhi
— InsideBamaRecruiting (@RTRnews) October 8, 2017
As for Davis, he constantly generated havoc in the backfield to the tune of eight tackles, one tackle for loss, one sack and a fumble recovery. While the two combined for 18 stops, Buggs and Davis limited the Aggies to 71 yards rushing on 40 carries.
Running back Keith Ford, who played well versus Alabama last season, totaled 19 yards rushing on 11 attempts (1.7 average).
Both players helped create three turnovers, including an interception from Minkah Fitzpatrick – which was his first of the season. Behind Buggs and Davis, the Tide’s defensive front chimed in with four sacks (-27), seven tackles for loss (-32) and three forced fumbles.
Alabama DL @BigPooh_91 With The TFL #BamavsTexasAM pic.twitter.com/SoefdhubHw
— BamaVideo (@BamaVideo_) October 7, 2017
Regardless of offensive struggles and issues on special teams, Alabama’s defense found ways to respond and pull the group to a close win in a hostile environment on the road.
Buggs and Davis are happy to see this program at 6-0; nevertheless, the Tide looks for better next week versus Arkansas.
Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @Smsmith_TDALMag.
